Thalassemia

Thalassemia is a genetic disorder of hemoglobin synthesis.<br>

Thalassemia occurs due to a decrease in the synthesis of either alpha or beta chains of hemoglobin. In alpha thalassemia, there is a decreased synthesis of the alpha chain. In thalassemia, there is decreased synthesis of the beta chain. beta-thalassemia is more common than alpha thalassemia.

Manifestations of beta-thalassemia are:
1. Severe growth retardation.
2. Distorted and large-sized face.
3. Enlargement of liver and spleen.
4. Delayed sexual development.

The beta-thalassemia patients die early, around 17 years of age. Blood transfusions can delay death to some extent.

Thalassemia is an inherited blood disorder characterized by less oxygen-carrying protein (hemoglobin) and fewer red blood cells in the body than normal.

Thalassemia occurs due to a decrease in the synthesis of either alpha or beta chains of hemoglobin. In alpha thalassemia, there is a decreased synthesis of the alpha chain. In thalassemia, there is decreased synthesis of the beta chain. beta-thalassemia is more common than alpha thalassemia.

Manifestations of beta-thalassemia are:
1. Severe growth retardation.
2. Distorted and large-sized face.
3. Enlargement of liver and spleen.
4. Delayed sexual development.

The beta-thalassemia patients die early, around 17 years of age. Blood transfusions can delay death to some extent.